Malocclusion is an oral condition characterized by a misaligned bite. It can occur when the upper and lower teeth don’t fit properly with the mouth closed or if the teeth are too crowded or crooked. It’s also very common.
According to a study published in PubMed Central, 70% of all children and adolescents have some form of malocclusion. Around 35% to 45% of these kids have a severe case requiring treatment. The researchers further note that, if left untreated, malocclusion can adversely affect oral health.
Fortunately, a pediatric orthodontist can help if your little one or teen has bite problems. But to understand why this is the type of doctor your child must see, it pays to know more about the myths surrounding them.
So, join us at Central Virginia Orthodontics (CVO) as we bust the myths surrounding pediatric orthodontists as children’s dental specialists.
1. All Dentists Are Experts in Pediatric Orthodontic Treatment
According to data published by Statista in June 2024, the U.S. had 159,265 active licensed dentists as of 2023. There were also 10,904 dentists specializing in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics and 9,183 specializing in pediatric dentistry.
With that said, not all dentists are orthodontists, much less pediatric orthodontists. Orthodontists are specialist dentists who’ve undergone additional and specific training and education on malocclusion, including its:
- Diagnosis
- Prevention
- Interception
- Correction
All the extra credentials of orthodontists make them the best choice for malocclusion-related problems.
2. There’s No Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Pediatric Orthodontist
All pediatric orthodontists are orthodontists, but not all orthodontists are pediatric orthodontists. While both are orthodontists, pediatric orthodontists have additional specializations: early orthodontic care and oral health for children.
3. They Only Handle Complex or Severe Cases
Oral healthcare providers use systems when classifying and diagnosing malocclusions. An example is the Ackerman and Profitt classification system, which describes malocclusions based on the jaw position or the relationship between the upper and lower teeth. There are six classes under this system, including:
- Class I: The upper teeth slightly stick out beyond the lower teeth, but the jaw still aligns correctly
- Class II: The upper teeth significantly stick out from the lower teeth, and the patient has an underdeveloped jaw
- Class III: An underdeveloped jaw makes the lower teeth significantly stick out beyond the upper teeth
- Class IV: The lower teeth significantly jut forward the upper teeth
- Class V: The patient has an overdeveloped jaw, and their upper teeth sit significantly forward of their lower teeth
- Class VI: The lower teeth sit considerably behind the upper teeth.
As researchers of a study published in Wiley Online Library point out, class III malocclusion cases are typically the most challenging to treat and fix. However, this doesn’t mean your little one or teen needs to have Class III malocclusion or any other severe bite issues just to see a pediatric orthodontist.
A pediatric orthodontist has the expertise to manage and train all sorts of teeth and jaw misalignment, whether minor, severe, or complex.
4. The Treatment They Provide Is Purely Cosmetic
Orthodontics aren’t purely cosmetic. On the contrary, the beautiful, straighter smiles they provide are more of a bonus than their primary benefit.
According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, orthodontic therapy, which correctly repositions teeth, provides the following benefits:
- Improves the function of an occlusion (the way the upper and lower teeth fit together)
- Enhances periodontal (gum) health
- Improves oral hygiene by making it easier to clean the teeth and gums
5. Their Treatments Are Only for Teenagers
Teenagers are the most common orthodontic patients. However, younger children can also benefit from early intervention. For the same reason, parents should consider taking their kids to their first orthodontist visit by age seven.
On the other end of the spectrum are adults. Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids and teens. Even those in their 20s or 50s can benefit from adult orthodontic treatment.
6. The Braces They Use Damage Teeth
You may have heard or read about how people undergoing orthodontic treatment, such as dental braces, are more prone to problems like tooth decay or damage.
Such issues can indeed happen. However, orthodontic appliances themselves don’t cause the damage. It has more to do with poor oral hygiene while wearing dental braces.
7. Metal Braces Are the Only Kids Braces Options Orthodontists Offer
Today’s pediatric orthodontists still treat patients with metal braces, but they’re no longer the only treatment they use.
Experienced orthodontists now offer ceramic braces (or “clear braces”). Clear braces use ceramic or tooth-colored brackets (and wires) instead of metal ones.
At CVO, our orthodontists are also experts in “clear” aligner treatment, including the Invisalign system. Unlike fixed traditional metal braces and clear braces, Invisalign utilizes removable aligners. So, patients can (and should) take them off when:
- Eating
- Drinking (except plain water)
- Brushing and flossing the teeth
Patients undergoing Invisalign treatment can also remove their aligners during special occasions (for instance, during a photo shoot). In general, though, they must wear the aligners for around 20 to 22 hours daily.
Thanks to Invisalign, kids and adults alike can undergo teeth straightening less conspicuously! Moreover, since these aligners are removable, they can help make maintaining optimal oral hygiene more manageable.
8. Their Treatments Are Painful
It’s a myth that pediatric orthodontists’ treatments cause severe pain. While wearing braces or aligners can cause discomfort, it’s often mild, temporary, and not inherently painful.
Moreover, innovations in orthodontics have resulted in smoother, more comfortable braces and aligners. Thanks to these advancements, the journey to healthier, more dazzling smiles has become more pleasant for children and adults alike.
Invest in Your Child’s Oral Health Today
And there you have it, your informative guide to the many myths (and truths) about a pediatric orthodontist. Now you know that not all dentists or even orthodontists are pediatric orthodontists. You also learned that orthodontic treatment brings health and aesthetic benefits to children, teens, and even adults.
So, if you’re ready to invest in your or your little one’s optimal orthodontic health, we invite you for a consultation at Central Virginia Orthodontics (CVO). Dr. Eric Baugher has been practicing orthodontics since 2004, while Dr. Jennifer Claiborne has been doing the same since 2006. Our doctors and team are ready to help you and your entire family achieve straighter, healthier, and more functional smiles.
Reach out today to schedule a free consultation!